Don't Let the Kids Win
by Julia Jacklin
Metascore
81

Universal acclaim - based on 12 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 12
  3. Negative: 0 out of 12
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  1. Delusions of Adequacy
    Dec 21, 2016
    80
    Overall, this is sophisticated pop with a folky twist crowned by a heaven-sent voice.
  2. Under The Radar
    Nov 15, 2016
    80
    It's in examining her own life through different colored lenses that this album becomes something remarkable.
  3. The Guardian
    Oct 6, 2016
    80
    Don’t Let the Kids Win feels very much like one of those albums that will slowly creep into the affections of a large number of people; it’s that lovely.
  5. Mojo
    Oct 5, 2016
    80
    A worthy addition to the genre. [Nov 2016, p.92]
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  6. Q Magazine
    Oct 5, 2016
    80
    Lean and modest throughout, Don't Let The Kids Win reverberates with a sense of truth that only the truly exceptional can convey. [Nov 2016, p.110]
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  7. Uncut
    Oct 5, 2016
    80
    A sturdy, touching arrival. [Nov 2016, p.31]
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  8. AllMusic
    Oct 5, 2016
    80
    Altogether, the album's palette and Jacklin's cracking, pensive delivery land her in a sphere with heavy-hitters such as Sharon Van Etten and Angel Olsen, with a touch of Lucinda Williams, making it a must for fans of thoughtful indie folk.
  9. DIY Magazine
    Oct 5, 2016
    80
    Don’t Let The Kids Win shines brightest for its clear, and charismatic narrative voice.
  10. The Line of Best Fit
    Oct 11, 2016
    75
    On Don’t Let The Kids Win, Jacklin proves herself to be an unlikely alt-country heroine, delivering an impressive, if at times understated, album that shows she has enough wit and wisdom to fill up a canyon or two.
  11. Consequence
    Oct 7, 2016
    75
    Due to her diverse strengths, Jacklin’s songs differ greatly--but where for some that may result in an inconsistent tone, Jacklin strengthens the album by honoring its emotional core at all costs. Tracks jump from genre to genre without losing their hypnotic quality.
  12. Exclaim
    Oct 7, 2016
    70
    Jacklin manages to rouse quite a number of emotions across these 11 tunes, including steady slow-burners, unconventional lyrics paired with bright guitars, hushed, soft singing and grungier moments here and there.
  13. Clash Music
    Oct 5, 2016
    50
    As a whole the LP’s similar tempos and approach cause the whole thing to float by like a long-lost memory, nice when you’ve clasped on to it but soon it’ll be running through your fingers and out of sight.

User Reviews

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User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 12 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 12
  3. Negative: 2 out of 12
  1. Dizzybra
    May 29, 2017
    10
    Amazing album. One of the best aussie albums in years. Althought some of the lesser songs are fillerish. The peaks of the album are sublime.Amazing album. One of the best aussie albums in years. Althought some of the lesser songs are fillerish. The peaks of the album are sublime. "Pool Party", "Don't let the Kids Win" and "Leadlight" are definite highlights… Full Review »
  2. Sistermadly
    Jan 25, 2019
    9
    This is one of those albums that hits you between the eyes from an artist you have never heard of before. Lovely signing and country inspiredThis is one of those albums that hits you between the eyes from an artist you have never heard of before. Lovely signing and country inspired riffs, it sweeps you away until you have to listen to it everyday.. Here's hoping crushing her next album continues the greatness… Full Review »
  3. hugosocool
    Oct 14, 2016
    8
    This is the kind of album that makes you feel nostalgic about things you've never even experienced. Very soft and easy to listen to, overallThis is the kind of album that makes you feel nostalgic about things you've never even experienced. Very soft and easy to listen to, overall just a wonderful bunch of songs.… Full Review »
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